An Insider's Guide to Securing Affordable Voice Acting Talent

How Much Should a Voice Actor Cost?A voice actor's cost can vary greatly, depending on their years of experience, skills, and the specifics of the job...

How Much Should a Voice Actor Cost?

A voice actor's cost can vary greatly, depending on their years of experience, skills, and the specifics of the job posting. In 2021, voice actors typically charged between $100 to $500 per hour, with more seasoned professionals earning considerably more. Rates can also be influenced by the voice-over work's length and complexity, with gigs like explainer videos, video games, and audiobooks generally commanding higher rates due to their extensive requirements.

On average, a voice actor could charge from $100 to $500 per hour, with top professionals charging even more. However, prices vary greatly based on the project type, actor's experience, and negotiation.

What is the Lowest Paid Voice Actor?

The lowest paid voice actors are typically new voice actors who are just starting their acting career. They may charge as low as $20 to $50 per hour or offer flat rates per audio file produced. However, while cheaper, new voice actors may not always deliver the high-quality voice over expected by clients, making it crucial to carefully consider the trade-off between cost and quality.

How much do voice actors charge per hour?

Voice actors' rates can vary greatly based on their level of experience, the nature of the work, and the industry standard.

As of my knowledge cutoff in 2021, the average hourly rate for voice acting work typically ranged from $100 to $500 for professionals. New and less experienced voice actors might charge significantly less, anywhere from $20 to $100 per hour.

Keep in mind that these are just averages. Many factors can influence a voice actor's rate, including the complexity and length of the project, the intended use of the voice over (e.g., regional vs. national broadcast), and whether it's a union or non-union job.

It's also important to note that many voice actors charge by the job, not by the hour. This rate often includes time for preparation and rehearsal, the actual recording, and any necessary edits or retakes. They might also have minimum rates for certain types of projects.

Please remember to check updated rates as the information may have changed post-2021.

Why is Voice Acting So Expensive?

Voice acting may seem expensive due to various factors. First, the talent's expertise in creating a good voice for a character or narration plays a significant role. Skills such as knowing how to use their voice, understanding different types of voice requirements, and delivering a perfect voice that matches the character or context are essential. Second, voice actors also invest in high-quality recording studio equipment, audio editing software, and post-production processes to deliver a professional voice over. Furthermore, the cost also covers the time spent in preparation, including studying the material, warming up the voice, and multiple takes for the best voice recording.

The Average Voice Actor Hourly Wage

As of 2021, the average voice actor hourly wage in the U.S was around $30-$40 for beginners, but this could climb to $100 or more for experienced professionals. Factors like voice acting jobs' complexity and length, and the actor's own voice quality and unique traits can also affect earnings.

How Do You Find a Voice Actor?

There are several ways to find a voice actor:

1. Voice-over Platforms: Websites like Voices.com, Upwork, and Fiverr are popular platforms where you can hire voice actors. These sites allow you to post jobs and receive auditions from interested voice-over talents.
2. Social Media: Platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter are also useful for finding voice artists. Actors often share their voice-over demos and previous work, making it easier to find the right voice for your project.
3. Casting Calls: You can also organize auditions or casting calls to find the best voice for your needs. This method is more time-consuming but can yield high-quality results.

What is the Best Way to Get Cheap Voice Actors?

If you're looking to hire cheap voice actors without compromising quality, consider the following strategies:

1. Up-and-Coming Talent: New voice actors seeking voiceover jobs may offer lower rates to build their portfolio. They may lack years of experience but have the potential to deliver a great voice over.
2. Negotiate Rates: Most voice actors are open to negotiation. If you have ongoing work or a larger project, you can negotiate a package deal.
3. Freelance Platforms: Websites like Fiverr, Upwork, and voices.com have a wide range of voice actors with varying rates. You can find affordable options by comparing different actors' rates and listening to their demo reels.
4. e-Learning and Podcasts: Consider e-learning platforms and podcasts where voice actors looking to gain experience may volunteer their services for free or at a lower cost.
5. Use Your Own Voice: If applicable, you can save on costs by doing your own voice over recording. Investing in a good home studio setup can help you achieve a high-quality sound.

Top 8 Voice Acting Software/Apps

1. Adobe Audition: A comprehensive tool for audio production, offering a wide range of features for recording, editing, and mixing audio.
2. Audacity: A free, open-source software suitable for basic audio editing tasks.
3. GarageBand: A macOS and iOS app, excellent for beginners in audio production.
4. Pro Tools: An industry-standard software used by professional audio engineers for advanced audio production tasks.
5. TwistedWave: A web-based and Mac software known for its straightforward interface and strong audio editing capabilities.
6. Logic Pro X: A professional recording studio on Mac offering advanced tools for professional music production.
7. Voice Record Pro: An app that allows recording, trimming, and sharing of voice recordings, suitable for quick voiceover work.
8. iZotope RX: A leading audio repair software used by professionals for post-production.

Finding cheap voice actors can be a daunting task. However, with these strategies and know-how, you can find the right talent that fits your budget and requirements. The important thing is to listen carefully to the auditions, identify the best voice that suits your project, and carefully consider the voice artist's expertise and experience. Happy casting!